Rumor: Apple plans to unveil second-gen iPad at iOS event next week

A new rumor claims that Apple plans to hold a special event to introduce in-app subscriptions with iOS 4.3 next week, and that the company intends to introduce its second-generation iPad at the conclusion of the event.

Citing sources within the accessories business, MacNotes.dereported Thursday that Apple is planning an event next week to highlight the features of iOS 4.3. The site speculated that the second-generation iPad could be presented as the famous "one more thing" at the end of the event.

Apple's new in-app subscription feature was unveiled on Wednesday with the launch of The Daily for iPad. But when asked about when the functionality might become available to other content providers and developers, iTunes chief Eddy Cue declined to comment, saying that Apple would provide more details in the near future. An event for iOS 4.3 could be where those details would be revealed.

MacNotes.de does not have an established track record with respect to Apple rumors, though it did obtain parts for a white iPhone 4 in December, and it has also claimed that the "iPad 2" will launch in early April. The alleged timeframe reported Thursday would also fit recent evidence that Apple could launch iOS 4.3 for the iPhone and iPad by Feb. 13.

The third beta of iOS 4.3 was released to developers this week. Apple has released updated betas on a weekly basis since mid-January.

Rumors of Apple's anticipated second-generation iPad have picked up steam in recent weeks, as Apple approaches the one-year mark since the device was launched in April 2010. Reports have suggested that the device could include a dual-core graphics processor and a mini DisplayPort.

Last week, AppleInsider exclusively reported that other rumors of an SD card slot on the next iPad are unlikely to materialize. Slots shown in leaked images of next-generation iPad cases are said to be more likely used for a SIM card in the model with integrated 3G wireless connectivity.